Feminism in everyday life: why equality matters to us all
For many people in Sierra Leone, the word feminism often evokes mixed reactions. Some associate it with opposition to men, rejection of cultural values, or negative stereotypes about women’s personal lives. Others see it as a movement that benefits only women.
These perceptions, however, do not reflect what feminism truly stands for.
At its heart, feminism is about equality. It is the belief that women and men deserve the same rights, and opportunities. As widely recognized in global development and human rights discourses, gender equality is not a ‘women’s issue’ it is a humanity issue that affects women, men, families, and communities alike.
Feminism does not seek to elevate one gender above another; rather, it seeks to remove barriers that prevent women from reaching their full potential. Men can also be feminists by supporting fairness, challenging discrimination, and promoting equal opportunities for everyone.
A feminist is anyone who recognizes that inequality exists and believes in changing it.
Feminism in everyday life
Many people already practice the values of feminism in their daily lives; they simply do not call it that.
A father who ensures that his daughter receives the same education as his son is practicing feminism.
A husband who shares domestic responsibilities and care work is practicing feminism.
A man who supports his wife’s ambitions and respects her decisions practices feminism.
A teacher who encourages girls to speak up and participate equally practices feminism.
A community leader who speaks out against violence against women and girls is standing up for justice practices feminism.
These are not extraordinary or radical actions. They are everyday acts of fairness.
Feminism simply asks us to challenge the beliefs, systems, and social norms that limit the opportunities available to women and girls.
Why this conversation matters in Sierra Leone
In Sierra Leone, the realities faced by women and girls make this conversation urgent.
According to the Sierra Leone Police Crime Statistics, 30,491 crimes were recorded in 2023. Violence against women and girls accounted for the largest share, with 10,063 reported cases. Between 2022 and 2023, a total of 21,679 cases of violence against women and girls were reported, yet fewer than 8 percent (739 cases) resulted in prosecution.
Recognizing the seriousness of the issue, the Government of Sierra Leone declared rape a national emergency in 2019, acknowledging the devastating impact that gender-based violence has on women and girls, families, and the country’s development.
These are not abstract numbers. Behind every statistic is a woman, a girl, a family, and a community whose lives have been profoundly affected.
When inequality is accepted, it creates an environment where violence and injustice continue.
Why we should all be feminists
Feminism benefits everyone; women, men, boys, and girls alike.
When we embrace the principles of feminism, we are choosing to:
- Treat one another with fairness and respect
- Support survivors of violence with compassion instead of blame
- Hold perpetrators accountable for their actions
- Create communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive
At its core, feminism is about human dignity.
A shared responsibility
Every time we choose fairness in our homes, support equal opportunities in our communities, and speak out against injustice, we are already advancing feminism.
The question is not whether feminism belongs to women or men.
The question is whether we are willing to stand for equality.
At Allies in Development, we believe that creating a future free from violence and discrimination begins with recognizing that equality is everyone’s responsibility.
This article was developed by Miatta Paula Thomas and Claris Esther Kanu
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